Celebrating Music in the Blue Ridge
Part of the mission of FRIENDS of the Blue Ridge is to celebrate the cultural uniqueness and environmental beauty of the Blue Ridge region. While much of the work our FRIENDS volunteers perform is physically impacting their local outdoor communities, FRIENDS utilizes our special events to showcase the cultural heritage, often through music and art.
The 2022 Blue Ridge Jamboree was the kick-off of Doc Watson at 100—Tribute Concert Program featuring “Doc's Legacy" by author and music scholar Dr. Ted Olson and music by T. Michael Coleman, Jack Lawrence, Wayne Henderson, and Jack Hinshelwood. With two shows – one in Roanoke and one in Asheville – over 800 attendees enjoyed an evening together hearing Doc Watson stories and songs.
The 2023 “On the Rise” Jamboree showcased our region’s best and brightest young talent including Addie + Eric, Newfound Gap, Appalachian Roots, The Brothers Young, Old Time Rowdies, A Mighty Friendly Mountain, and more.
Future Blue Ridge Jamboree events will continue to honor the music and cultural history that makes the Blue Ridge region so special.
About FRIENDS of the Blue Ridge
FRIENDS of the Blue Ridge is a 501(c)(3) non-profit, volunteer and membership organization dedicated to Making Blue Ridge Communities Better. Members financially support FRIENDS programs. FRIENDS chapters are community-based organizations that empower and coordinate volunteers, projects, and events in their local areas.
We extend our reach by working with local and regional government, common-minded nonprofits, clubs and other organizations.